One year ago, a letter arrived for my mother-in-law, Linda, informing her that “someone she knew a long time ago” wanted to get in touch.

The letter was from Barnardo’s, and that “someone” was a daughter she’d been forced to give up through adoption 47 years prior.

After locating Linda, the support and advice Barnardo’s delivered (mediating and enabling an exchange of numerous letters between them) led to her finally meeting her daughter, Shelly, once again.

I can happily say that was only the beginning as Shelly and her family have become an integrated and important part of our family since that date.

They say you don’t fully identify with a charity until you’re closely affected, and the effect that Barnardo’s has had on our family has been huge.

That letter and initial contact changed our lives, with many shocks, surprises, tears and laughs, as well as peace and new friendships.

Now I couldn’t imagine Shelly and her family not being part of our lives, and to celebrate that, I’m raising money for Barnardo’s, by cycling 100 miles in the London-Surrey 100 in August, so others can benefit in the way we have.

They made Linda’s dream come true, they created an opportunity she had hoped would happen everyday for the past 47 years...and changed all our lives forever, for the better!

Any support you can give to help me meet my target would be much appreciated!!

Ad xxx